Seven empty containers from seagoing vessel Bangkok Express fell onto the aft deck of the LNG bunkering vessel K. Lotus during a bunkering operation on 6 February at Maasvlakte 2, in Rotterdam.
Two containers also fell into the water during the operation.
“This happened during a regular bunkering operation – the supply of fuel to a ship – from the K. Lotus to the Bangkok Express,” the Port of Rotterdam Authority told Manifold Times, when asked about the incident.
No one was injured and the crew of the bunkering vessel gathered in a safe location and the bunkering operation was stopped immediately.
The port authority also said no LNG was released, adding that the safety procedures surrounding LNG bunkering are very strict and extensive.
“Safety is always the highest priority. This type of bunkering vessel is additionally protected against potential incidents through multiple safety measures,” it said.
Patrol vessels from the Port of Rotterdam Authority, the Seaport Police and Rijkswaterstaat arrived at the scene urgently after the incident.
The Prinses Amaliahaven was closed for two hours on Friday evening, until it became clear how many containers were in the water and where they were located. The containers have been recovered without affecting vessel traffic.
“The Bangkok Express received permission to leave the port of Rotterdam and has since departed. The containers that landed on the K. Lotus struck the accommodation of the vessel, not the cargo (LNG) area,” the port authority said.
“These containers have now also been removed. The K. Lotus has sustained damage to its mooring system and will therefore remain in the port of Rotterdam for the time being.”
The Dutch Safety Board (OVV), the Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate (ILT) and the Port of Rotterdam Authority are investigating the cause of the incident.
Photo credit: MarineTraffic / Roland Delhaxhe
Published: 11 February, 2026
